11# Propane questions

[dmb90260]

As I have noted in other discussions, I prefer Coleman hoses. I had an off-brand.. no idea who made it... that caused two fires in my cooking equipment. With the first one I assumed I had made a poor connection. I replaced it with a Coleman hose after the second event and never had another problem. I never cooked in the galley, always on a separate table.

Does anyone make use of the old style propane tanks? I am guessing they can be retro fitted with a current connector. I have one with a very tall "collar" that came off my 1960 trailer.

[Dale M.]

OPD/POL valves run about $20 to $25 range..... Labor charge may or may not be issue retrofitting tank - PERSONALLY, I WOULD LEAVE THIS PROCESS TO PROFESSIONAL .... New tanks start around $30 range.... Unless you absolutely need specific tank design, I think getting new tank is best advice...

NOTE SAFETIC NOTIFICATION ON SITE:

BEFORE YOU READ ANY FURTHER, PLEASE READ THIS!

Any work performed on propane tanks must be performed by qualified personel trained to recertify propane tanks. Check with your propane supplier for proper training or go to National Propane Gas Association.

http://www.kingssupply.com/cat6_1.htm

Another issue is tanks are supposed to be pressure tested every 12 years, Its supposed to be illegal to fill tank that is out or date... I had one tank in past that could not be filled because it was outdated. Using $20 tank exchange services removes most of the hassles of dealing with tank "specifications" (dates-valve type) ..

Dale

[dmb90260]

OPD/POL valves run about $20 to $25 range..... Labor charge may or may not be issue retrofitting tank - PERSONALLY, I WOULD LEAVE THIS PROCESS TO PROFESSIONAL .... New tanks start around $30 range.... Unless you absolutely need specific tank design, I think getting new tank is best advice...

Not an issue or problem for me. I have had CO2 tanks recertified back in my beer making days. I am happy with modern tanks but someone might want to use these for the full restoration look.

[exminnesotaboy]

Easy way to tell how much liquid is in tank is to boil a quart or two of water... Then dribble it slowly over side of tank.... It will warm area of tank above liquid level, by running hand down tank side you can feel level where liquid is, that is most accurate method of "field" testing tank.... Its the liquid level that is indicator of how full tank actually is.

Dale

awesome, great idea. Thanks!

[dewayne]

Hy to all. I have a 11lb tank that was my dads that I remember him having in Melbourne Mo. at Circle B campgrounds in the early 60's. I took it down to my local gas and welding supply yesterday and they said they would replace the valve with a new type valve and fill it for $21.00. so I left it with them, I'll pick it up today. This is going to be my main tank for my tear with a 1lb backup connection also.

dewayne

[Sam I am]

Since we're talking about propane tanks, here's my situation: I have two very old 20 lb. tanks, each about half full. They have the old style valves on top. I modified a hose so I could use those tanks to feed my portable gas grill. I fired it up yesterday with one of the old tanks and it quit in a few minutes. It turns out that the valve on top of the tank stopped working. So now I have an old, rusting, half full tank with a valve that won't let any gas out! How can I get rid of it safely and legally? Does someone take old tanks and empty them? The local building supply place where I had it filled doesn't want it. Help!

[madjack]

Sam, I don't know how it is up there is sunny Pa, but down here, there is a propane exchange(usually Blue Rhino) at just about every box store, hardware, grocery store, most gas stations, heck even WalGreens Drugs has one...then there are a half dozen (or so) bulk propane distributors in the area...all of them will take an old tank in exchange...some for free...some for fee....YMMV
madjack

[Tripmaker]

WOW I learn something new every day. Right now I have 2 full 20# tanks stored in my garage attached to the house. Sounds like I need to move them outdoors. Thanks for the heads up before I blow up.

[dmb90260]

MJ is right on, I upgraded all my tanks at Home Depot with Blue Rhino. I paid a little more than I would to fill an empty tank but it was well worth it. There was one I was sure they would not accept but no problem at all.
The worst that can happen is you take the same bad one back home.
If you can find a propane service store, not just a fill spot, they should be able to drain the tanks if that is all you need.

[Gambam]

local gas station has a blue rino cage and they exchange for new tanks no question asked. I have taken 5 old tanks to them they exchanged them for the same price as if it was a new style valve.

[Sam I am]

Thanks, guys. I'll check some more stores. I just want to be rid of the container. It scares me sitting next to my garage waiting to explode!

[bledsoe3]

So now I have an old, rusting, half full tank with a valve that won't let any gas out! How can I get rid of it safely and legally?

Incendiary round. Oh, never mind I see you said safely and legally.

[kayakrguy]

Final step,

I got a 5# tank and a adapter hose by 'Mr. Heater' at a local Camping world store. Tested it out with the stove yesterday, worked fine!

Thanks to all for the propane 'seminar'!

Jim